Ashton Mitchell was tasked with designing a solution that both honoured the sentimental value of the existing clubhouse and provided significant new amenities for residents.
Last week marked a key milestone at Karaka Lifestyle Estate, with a roof shout held to celebrate the progress on the village’s new clubhouse. Work on site began in October 2024, and construction has been advancing at an impressive pace.
With the roof now firmly in place and exterior cladding steadily wrapping the structure, the building is beginning to express its architectural form. Completion remains on track for early December, ensuring the community will soon enjoy the benefits of these much-anticipated facilities.
Karaka Pines Villages is built around the idea of community—retirement living that feels close-knit, welcoming, and socially connected. At Karaka Lifestyle Estate, the existing clubhouse has long been the heart of the village.
Originally a refurbished residence with an outdoor pool, it sits proudly at the north of the development overlooking the estuary. However, with the village expanding rapidly, the clubhouse’s capacity no longer met the needs of the growing community.
Ashton Mitchell was tasked with designing a solution that both honoured the sentimental value of the existing clubhouse and provided significant new amenities for residents. The brief called for an indoor pool, gym, generous dining hall, games room, lounge space, and a commercial kitchen capable of supporting large gatherings and annual meetings of up to 300 people.
Our approach was to extend the clubhouse in two directions: fitness facilities to the east, and social/event spaces to the west, with the existing building acting as a central link. This arrangement ensures all wings enjoy uninterrupted estuary views and natural daylight, while reinforcing the clubhouse as the village’s social anchor.
With construction progressing strongly, it is exciting to see the design taking shape on site, ready to serve the community for many years ahead.
